Dartfishes
Blue gudgeon (Ptereleotris microlepis)
The Blue gudgeon (Ptereleotris microlepis) belongs to the family Microdesmidae (dartfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a plankton feeder and usually seen in pairs or alone. It reaches about 12 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Ptereleotris microlepis |
|---|---|
| Family | Dartfishes (Microdesmidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Dartfish squame minute |
| Common name (EN) | Blue gudgeon |
| Maximum size | 12 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Blue gudgeon belong to?
- The Blue gudgeon (Ptereleotris microlepis) belongs to the family Microdesmidae (dartfishes).
- Is the Blue gudgeon dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Blue gudgeon endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Blue gudgeon get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 12 cm.